"The Servant Man", as recorded by The Full English in 2013 is based on "The Young Servant Man, or, The Two Affectionate Lovers" in Lucy Broadwood's book English Traditional Songs and Carols (London: Boosey & Co, 1908, p. 38): THE SERVANT MAN It's of a damsel both fair and handsome, These lines are true as I have been told. On the banks of Shannon, in a lofty mansion, Her father chambered great stores of gold. Her hair was black as a raven's feather, Her form and features to describe who can? But still this folly belongs to nature For she fell in love with her servant man. As these two lovers were fondly talking Her father heard them and near them drew; As these two lovers were together walking In anger home her father flew. To build a dungeon was his intention, To part true love he contrived to plan. He swore an oath on all his mansion, He would part his fair one from her servant man. Young Edwin found her habitation, It was secured by an iron door; He vowed in spite of all the nation He'd gain her freedom or love no more. So at his leisure he toiled with pleasure To gain the freedom of Mary Ann. And when he had found out his treasure, She cried, "My faithful young servant man!" When her father found that she was vanished Then like a lion he thus did roar, Saying, "From Old Ireland you shall be banished, And with my sword I will spill your gore." "Agreed," said Edwin, "I freed your daughter, I freed your daughter, do all you can. But forgive your treasure, I die with pleasure, For the one in fault it is your servant man." When her father found him so tender-hearted The down he fell on the dungeon floor, Saying, "Such true lovers must ne'er be parted Since love can enter an iron door." So soon they're one to be parted never, They roll in riches as young couples can. This fair young lady delights in pleasure Contented with her young servant man.
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